The General Synod Office of the Scottish Episcopal Church is to move to a new home in Edinburgh city centre, while the long-term future of Forbes House is addressed.

Modern office space has been identified close to the existing GSO premises, offering strong public transport links and good accessibility, and negotiations on a lease have begun.

The move, which is expected to take place before the end of this year, is necessary because a number of operational and maintenance issues have been identified at Forbes House, the long-term home of the GSO in Grosvenor Crescent, which require immediate attention.

After undertaking detailed investigation and robust discussion of the various issues and the available options, Provincial Standing Committee members decided that the General Synod Office should relocate as soon as practically possible. This will allow an options appraisal to take place as the Committee considers the modern requirements of Synod Office operations and the on-going suitability of Forbes House, which could be refurbished or sold.

Commenting afterwards, Cathy Johnston, the new Convener of the Provincial Standing Committee, welcomed the decision to take positive action on the future of the General Synod Office while also acknowledging that Forbes House has been a constant in the life of the Scottish Episcopal Church for many people.

“This is an important decision and one that many people will feel connected to because Forbes House has been the base for the General Synod office for so long,” said Cathy.

“Moving out of Forbes House will be a big change, and that can feel uncomfortable. A lot of collaborative and collegiate work is now taking place to look at the best options going forward.”

Dr Dee Bird, Secretary General of the General Synod, said: “While no doubt many will, understandably, be nostalgic about Forbes House, the consideration and then identification of modern office requirements for the GSO will support transformational change by increasing flexibility, enhancing cross-team collaboration and communication, as well as helping to manage our carbon footprint.”

Staff at the GSO have been kept informed and will now begin preparations for the move out of Forbes House.

Edinburgh Diocese, which occupies the basement of Forbes House, is considering its options. An offer has been made to the Diocese to co-locate with the GSO at its new home.